West Chicago Creating The Jewelry And Art Registry

Community Contributor Lovisa Alvin

Over the course of many years, Chicago has become a hub for tourism and industry. McDonald's plans on moving their headquarters to the city within the next year. And, some of the most skilled jewelers in the world reside in Chicago, but there is a major problem. Chicago residents are completely unaware of these individuals and their works of art. Well, if the Cultural Arts Commission of Chicago has their way, Chicago residents will be able to gain access to these works of arts much easier than ever before! The Cultural Arts Commission is a governmental agency, which hopes to enrich the lives of West Chicagoans by supporting art activities.

The group is responsible for sponsoring a wide assortment of art shows, events, and workshops, while also helping to maintain the works of local artists. This commission meets on the first Thursday each and every month at 7 PM. During the group's last meeting, it was confirmed that they would be creating a public registry for local artists. According to the group's Chairwoman, Anni Holm, the registry will contain information regarding each and every artist, who happens to live within the city of Chicago. Local residents will be able to visit the registry's website and enter information regarding themselves. And, artists aren't the only ones that will be able to do just this.

Residents will be able to visit the register and learn about David Birnbaum rare jewelry, as well as local works of art throughout the city. It doesn't matter what type of medium the artist works with they'll be able to add their information for the registry for all to see. So, the registry will contain a large quantity of diverse artists ranging from oil painters, water color artists, to jewelry makers. As Holm points out, it is essential to make sure that everyone feels like they can be a part of the event. Even those that only paint or draw as a hobby are encouraged to sign up for the registry. The group is always well aware of many Chicago works of art, including the Lily Murals within West Chicago and the tree carvings located in Reed Keppler Park. Each of these will be added to the registry, but the commission hopes residents will do their part and add more.

At the end of the day, the overall purpose of the registry is to compile a list of information regarding local resources and talent. And Holm insists the commission hopes that the community will get involved and feel like a part of the experience. Once the registry manages to gain a large quantity of entries, the commission will utilize the information to try and craft the future of art within the city. There are numerous art establishments within Chicago, including the Chicago Artists Coalition. This group has already confirmed that they will be encourage all of their artists to sign up for the registry.

If you're an artist or jeweler, who happens to reside in West Chicago, you should definitely consider adding your name to the registry as soon as possible. Doing so will increase your exposure and allow you to network with other artists.

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